Common Hidden Hospital Charges and How to Avoid Them

Hidden expenses in the hospital: Know, understand and save

Many times patients return home after getting treatment from the hospital and are shocked to see the bill. It not only includes the treatment charge, but there are also many hidden expenses which are not known beforehand. If you know about them in advance and are careful, then these can be avoided. Let us understand in detail what these expenses are, how they are incurred and what are the ways to reduce them.

Common Hidden Expenses to Pay Attention To

1. Facility FeeHospitals often charge a separate fee for the use of their building or facilities. This fee can be charged not only for inpatients (those who have been admitted) but also for outpatient i.e. OPD services.Example: If you have gone for just a small checkup but the doctor’s clinic is in the hospital building, then the facility fee may be added.Prevention: Ask beforehand whether your doctor practices privately or is part of a hospital system, and what the facility fee will be.
2. Emergency Room ChargesGoing to the emergency department (ER) is often more expensive because it involves different types of charges.This includes the facility fee, the doctor’s fee, and separate charges for tests (such as blood tests, X-rays).Example: If you go to the ER even for a minor injury, several different line items may be added to the bill.Prevention: If the condition is not serious, consider going to a general OPD or urgent care center.
3. Anesthesia FeesThe fee of the doctor (anesthesiologist) who gives anesthesia in any surgery or major procedure is often separate from the hospital bill.This means that you may get a separate bill for the anesthesiologist along with the hospital charge.Prevention: Before surgery, ask if the anesthesia fee is included in the total estimated cost.
4. Lab and Imaging FeesThe cost of tests like blood test, X-ray, MRI, CT scan is added separately.Sometimes the same test can be done at a lower cost in a lab outside the hospital.Prevention: Ask the doctor in advance which tests will be done and what is their estimated cost.
5. Medication CostsThe medicines given in the hospital can often be more expensive than the outside pharmacy.Prevention: Ask the doctor if you can bring the medicine from outside, especially for long-term medicines.
6. Consultation FeesIf a specialist doctor is called during the treatment, then his consultation fee may be added separately.Prevention: Clarify in advance whether any specialist may be needed and what will be his fee.

Ways to Avoid Hidden Costs

1. Request EstimatesAsk the hospital or doctor for a written estimate of the bill that includes facility, professional and all other charges.If you are to be provided with multiple services, get a separate estimate for each service.
2. Verify Insurance CoverageTalk to your insurance company beforehand to know which services are covered and which you will have to bear yourself.Choosing an in-network doctor and hospital will reduce your expenses.
3. Review Bills CarefullyLook at the bill you receive after treatment carefully.If you do not understand any charge, seek clarity from the hospital’s billing department.
4. Negotiate CostsIf the bill is more than you expected, talk to the hospital and ask about a discount or payment plan.Many hospitals also offer discounts on immediate payment or financial status.
5. Use In-Network ProvidersChoosing doctors and hospitals that are in your insurance network can reduce your expenses significantly.Out-of-network services can cost you a lot of money.

Additional Tips and Examples

• Urgent Care Center vs ER: If you have a minor injury, fever or a small infection, going to an urgent care center instead of the ER can save thousands of rupees.
• Buying medicines from outside: A patient was charged ₹1500 for an antibiotic injection given in the hospital, while the same was available in an outside pharmacy for ₹500.
• Choice of Tests: The cost of an MRI was ₹7000 in the hospital, but the same was available in a nearby diagnostic center for ₹4000.

Why is it Important to Be Aware?

While health services are invaluable, they can also turn into a heavy financial burden. There will be cases when you can save money and avoid stress by seeking advance information, asking the right questions, and watching the bill closely.

Never forget – hospitals and doctors are your health partners, and you have some right to know why every charge is levied. Clarity and transparency all contribute towards a better experience.